FUND-RAISERS in Carmarthenshire raised more than double their target in aid of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society.

Royal Welsh president Dai Lewis said this year's featured county has raised £233,000, which will be used to help redevelop the showground's popular Food Hall and promote the ever-increasing range of quality Welsh produce.

"The magnificent efforts put into our featured year by so many people has made me feel extremely proud," said Mr Lewis, the estate agent and auctioneer who operates cattle marts in Llandysul and Newcastle Emlyn.

"The people of Carmarthenshire showed a wonderful enthusiasm and support for the Royal Welsh, and the total we were able to raise is another record for the county."

He paid tribute to members of the Young Farmers' Club, who had played a major role in the fund-raising effort.

Wales YFC Federation chairman Dafydd Lewis said, "We as young farmers are so proud of the Royal Welsh and the Winter Fair.

"They are not just a national stage for our competitions but the shop window for Wales and the world for our industry, and help to raise standards and secure the future of Welsh agriculture."